Let's see if we can get this show on the road without starting a flame war...

Many Americans claim to take the “anti-war/pro-troops” stance on the Iraq War. This has caused a lot of dispute and debate between individuals on all sides of the argument (anti-war/anti-troops, pro-war/pro-troops, and anti-war/pro-troops) because there is not a singular, definitive definition of what it means to be “anti- war but pro-troops”. There never will be, which is problematic for the individuals who make this argument because half the time they are arguing amongst themselves about what their viewpoints actually are and what they “should be”. While this is problematic, it is also realistic.

A statement such as “I do not support this war, but I support our troops” is not at all self explanatory. Individuals who make that statement need to realize this and be prepared to provide a clearer description of their views. By the same token, people who oppose that viewpoint should not take this statement at face value and fling accusations without waiting for further explanation. This is a significant problem with all political issues, but the purpose of this blog is to come to understand the conflict that results from the lack of definition surrounding the “anti-war/pro-troops” viewpoint.

Take a moment to think about what it means to you when someone says that they support the troops, but they are against the war.

Okay, now that you’ve done that, I have this to say to you: I support our troops. I do not support the war. Here is what the above statements mean to me:

I support our troops: The troops are fighting for democracy, freedom and safety. I have nothing but respect for them because I know that I would never have the courage to put my life on the line for any of those reasons. They knew what they were getting into when they signed up and I am aware of that. While they are there, serving our country they should have the best means of protection possible. Also, when they return as veterans from the war they should have healthcare benefits that are flexible and cater to their specific injuries. Job opportunities should also be made available to them on their return.

I do not support the war: I have never been for this war, even when in its earliest stages, when the American public was under the impression that the war would last months at best. The fact that I knew my country, my home was at war, made me feel uncomfortable and unsafe. My discomfort evolved into fear upon hearing that the UN had not approved of the war. Fighting a war with little support logically infers that the odds are stacked against us. This war will leave this country in economic debt for decades to come. We have lost thousands of Americans soldiers in this war.

My next blog entry will place a focus on citing and supporting my arguments.